At BLB&G, our dedication to public service is not just a guiding principle—it's a tradition deeply woven into the fabric of our firm. We believe that excellence in legal work goes hand in hand with a commitment to using the law as a tool for social good. Our initiatives include fellowships, scholarships, sponsorships, community service, and pro bono legal service, all designed to have a positive impact on society and support those in need.
Fellowships and Scholarships
Bernstein Litowitz Berger & Grossmann Public Interest Law Fellowship, Columbia Law School: This fellowship provides Columbia Law School graduates with full funding to cover their law school tuition loans as long as they remain in the public interest law field. This program enables young lawyers to pursue careers in public interest law without financial constraints.
Paul M. Bernstein Memorial Scholarship, Columbia Law School: Honoring our founding senior partner, Paul M. Bernstein, this scholarship at Columbia Law School supports second-year students who exhibit academic excellence, professional responsibility, financial need, and community involvement. Established in 1990, it continues to nurture the development of future legal leaders.
Dale and Max Berger Public Interest Law Fellowship at Columbia Law School: Established by BLB&G Founding Partner Max Berger and his wife, Dale, this fellowship nurtures the next generation of lawyers dedicated to public interest work, ensuring that talented individuals have the financial support needed to pursue careers that prioritize community service and the public good.
Firm Sponsorships and Initiatives
Her Justice: BLB&G proudly sponsors Her Justice, a non-profit organization in New York City dedicated to providing pro bono legal representation to indigent women, particularly survivors of intimate partner violence. Members of our firm volunteer their time to assist with crucial legal matters involving divorce, child support, custody, visitation, and more.
Beyond #MeToo: BLB&G Partner Rebecca Boon co-founded Beyond #MeToo, an interdisciplinary group composed of experts, litigators, and academics dedicated to examining the root causes of workplace misconduct. This group is committed to fostering a healthier corporate culture by addressing systemic issues and advocating for meaningful reforms.
Matching Donation Program: BLB&G matches employee donations to recognized 501(c)(3) organizations dollar for dollar, amplifying the impact of charitable efforts within our community. For example, in conjunction with the BLB&G’s global potluck lunch event, the firm recently matched employee donations for Bowery Mission, City Harvest, Meals on Wheels, and other local organizations that support food insecurity.
Community Service Initiatives
Supporting Veterans: BLB&G is deeply committed to honoring and supporting those who have served our country. We have organized volunteer initiatives in partnership with VA New York Harbor Healthcare, an organization dedicated to addressing the mental health and substance abuse challenges faced by veterans. Our team engages in meaningful interactions with veterans, listening to their stories, sharing experiences, and providing companionship. Additionally, we organize clothing donation drives for veterans, reinforcing our commitment to their dignity and well-being.
Combating Homelessness: BLB&G partners with Bowery Mission, a cornerstone organization in New York City known for its support of the homeless community. Our volunteers actively participate in various activities, from serving nourishing meals to visitors to assisting in kitchen preparations. By working on the lines, we contribute directly to the mission’s efforts to provide sustenance and hope to those facing the harsh realities of homelessness.
Clothing Drives: BLB&G regularly runs clothing drives benefiting a wide array of non-profit organizations, including In Her Shoes, That Suits You, Dress for Success, Working Wardrobes, Clothes the Deal, Green Drop, Bottomless Closet, and the Holy Cross Ukrainian Catholic Church.
City Year: As advocates for youth engagement in public service, we actively support City Year New York, a division of AmeriCorps. This program inspires young people to commit to a year of full-time community service, leadership development, and civic engagement, fostering a lifetime of citizenship and building a stronger democracy.
Pro Bono Legal Service
BLB&G provides pro bono legal services through the Volunteers of Legal Service program. Through this program, the firm is participating in the Incarcerated Mothers Law Project, helping incarcerated mothers understand and reestablish their parental rights through advice on various legal issues, including visitation, custody, public benefits, and more.